The Zika (ZEE'-kuh) virus is a mosquito-borne viral infection that primarily occurs in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Most people infected with the Zika virus have no signs and symptoms, while others report mild fever, rash and muscle pain. Other signs and symptoms may include headache, red eyes (conjunctivitis) and a general feeling of discomfort. Zika virus is also called Zika or Zika virus disease.
Zika virus infections during pregnancy have been linked to miscarriage and can cause microcephaly, a potentially fatal congenital brain condition. The Zika virus also may cause other neurological disorders such as Guillain-Barre syndrome. Researchers are working on a Zika virus vaccine. For now the best prevention is to prevent mosquito bites and reduce mosquito habitats.
Symptoms
As many as 4 out of 5 people infected with the Zika virus have no signs or symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they usually begin two to seven days after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito. Signs and symptoms of the Zika virus most commonly include:
- Mild fever
- Rash
- Joint or muscle pain
Other signs and symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Red eyes (conjunctivitis)
Most people recover fully, with symptoms resolving in about a week.
Causes
The Zika virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of an infected aedes species mosquito, which can be found throughout the world. The virus was first identified in the Zika Forest in Uganda in 1947, but outbreaks have since been reported in southeastern and southern Asia, the Pacific Islands and the Americas. When a mosquito bites a person infected with the Zika virus, the virus enters the mosquito. When the infected mosquito then bites another person, the virus enters that person's bloodstream. The virus can also spread to the fetus during pregnancy. Spread of the virus through sexual contact and blood transfusion have been reported.
Treatment
No specific antiviral treatment for the Zika virus exists. Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms with rest, fluids and medications — such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) — to relieve joint pain and fever.
No vaccine exists to prevent the Zika virus. But several vaccines are currently in clinical trials.
